Pizza Fan chain faces investigation for 35 million euro tax fraud

Greek authorities, led by the Financial Crime Investigation Unit, have dismantled a criminal organization operating within the Pizza Fan food chain. The investigation, which began five months ago following a whistleblower complaint, revealed that the company systematically evaded VAT payments since 2022 by manipulating electronic point-of-sale systems. An estimated 35 million euros in tax revenue has been withheld from the state. The illicit scheme involved a custom algorithm that allowed staff to process paid orders as "free treats" or "gifts," thereby bypassing fiscal documentation.

Authorities have arrested 23 individuals, including the company founder Konstantinos Antaras and other senior executives, managers, and accountants. During raids, police discovered a hidden vault behind a false wall in the founder's villa, containing 1.1 million euros in cash. The criminal network allegedly used a Nicosia-based holding company to manage the chain’s assets and exert central control over its 100 Greek outlets.

As of late October 2026, the accused face felony charges including participation in a criminal organization, money laundering, and large-scale tax evasion. Many of the chain's locations have been shuttered, leaving employees without work or unpaid wages as the legal proceedings continue. The defendants are expected to appear before the court early this week.